Gold Lunar Series Coins for Sale

Buy Gold Lunar Series Coins Online

Our catalog of gold lunar series coins spans nearly three decades of production from The Perth Mint, covering both Series I and Series II issues from 1996 through 2014 and beyond. You'll find coins in a range of weights including 1/20 oz, 1/10 oz, 1/4 oz, 1/2 oz, 1 oz, and 2 oz, all struck in 0.9999 fine gold and carrying Australian legal tender status. Each year in the twelve-year lunar cycle is represented across multiple denominations, giving buyers a genuinely broad selection of formats from the same world-class facility.

The product grid above reflects the depth of the lunar program as it evolved over time. Early Series I coins from the Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, and Snake years share catalog space with the refined Series II designs introduced in 2008, which brought updated diameters, revised packaging dimensions, and a fresh artistic treatment to each successive animal year. Whether you're completing a series by year and weight or simply looking for a specific denomination, the selection available here covers the full spectrum of what this program has produced.

Bullion Standard sources these coins from reputable wholesalers and distributors and prices them transparently against real-time gold spot rates. Every order is fulfilled with the same commitment to authenticity, packaging integrity, and reliable delivery that has defined our approach since 2010.

What Are Gold Lunar Series Coins?

Gold lunar series coins are government-issued bullion coins produced by The Perth Mint and authorized as legal tender by the Australian government. Each coin is tied to a specific year in the traditional Chinese lunar calendar, with a different animal zodiac symbol depicted on the reverse for each twelve-year cycle. The coins carry face value denominations in Australian dollars, though their market value is determined by their gold content and the prevailing premium structure rather than face value.

What distinguishes lunar coins from standard bullion coins is their dual appeal. They function as conventional weight-based gold bullion, trading broadly within the physical precious metals market, while also drawing interest from collectors who focus on the artistry, the annual design rotation, and the progression of the series across multiple decades. This combination of bullion utility and design collectibility gives lunar coins a somewhat distinct profile compared to single-design issues like the American Gold Eagle or the Gold Kangaroo.

The series is available in a full range of fractional weights, which makes it accessible to buyers at different price points. A 1/20 oz coin represents a relatively modest entry, while 2 oz coins appeal to buyers who prefer fewer, larger pieces. The consistent 0.9999 purity across all weights is a key characteristic, reflecting the Perth Mint's commitment to fine gold production.

History and Background

The Perth Mint launched its gold lunar program in 1996 with the Year of the Rat coin, beginning what would become Series I of a twelve-year production run. The series continued annually through 2007, concluding the first cycle with the Year of the Pig. These early issues were produced in relatively modest quantities compared to more widely distributed bullion programs, which has contributed to their sustained recognition among collectors familiar with the Perth Mint's history.

Series II launched in 2008 with the Year of the Mouse, reintroducing the lunar cycle with updated designs, revised coin dimensions on certain denominations, and a refined artistic direction under the Perth Mint's design team. The 1 oz Series II coins, for example, shifted to a larger diameter of approximately 39.34 mm compared to the 32.1 mm of their Series I counterparts, a change that gave the new generation a more substantial physical presence. The 1/10 oz and 1/4 oz denominations also saw dimensional adjustments between the two series, reflecting the mint's evolving production standards.

Over the course of both series, the Perth Mint refined its packaging and presentation, introduced 2 oz denominations in the later years of Series I, and expanded the 1/2 oz offering as the program matured. These refinements helped establish the lunar program as one of the most consistently produced themed bullion series in the global market, recognized by dealers, auction houses, and private collectors across multiple continents.

Purity, Weight, and Specifications

Every gold lunar coin in our catalog is struck in 0.9999 fine gold, meaning the metal content is 99.99% pure. This is the highest standard purity for gold bullion coins and is shared by only a handful of programs globally, including certain Canadian Maple Leaf issues. The 0.9999 purity marking appears on the coin itself and is backed by The Perth Mint's institutional guarantee.

Weights across the series range from 0.05 troy oz (1/20 oz) through 0.1 oz, 0.25 oz, 0.5 oz, 1 oz, and 2 oz. Troy ounces are the standard unit of weight in the precious metals industry and differ from the avoirdupois ounce used in everyday commerce. One troy ounce equals approximately 31.1 grams. The face values assigned to these coins range from $5 AUD on the 1/20 oz up to $200 AUD on the 2 oz, though again these denominations reflect legal tender status rather than the coins' actual market value.

Physical dimensions vary by weight and by series. Series I 1 oz coins measure 32.1 mm in diameter with a 2.8 mm thickness, while Series II 1 oz coins are wider at 39.34 mm with a 2.5 mm thickness. The 1/10 oz Series II coins measure 18.6 mm in diameter compared to 16.1 mm for Series I. These differences are relevant when selecting capsules, storage trays, or display cases and are worth noting before purchasing accessories.

Available Brands, Mints, and Product Variations

All gold lunar series coins available through Bullion Standard are produced by The Perth Mint, one of Australia's oldest and most respected precious metals institutions. Operating since 1899 and backed by the Government of Western Australia, the Perth Mint carries a strong international reputation for quality control, coin design, and consistent production standards. Its P mint mark appears on lunar coins and serves as a reliable authenticity indicator recognized worldwide.

Within our catalog, you'll encounter both Series I and Series II coins spanning years from 1996 to 2014 within the first 100 listings. The Series I program covers twelve animal years beginning with the Rat (1996) and ending with the Pig (2007). Series II restarts the cycle with the Mouse (2008) and continues through subsequent years with updated dimensions and revised reverse designs. Some years within Series I offered only four denominations (1/20, 1/10, 1/4, and 1 oz), while later years in the program introduced 1/2 oz and 2 oz coins as the series matured.

Notable dimensional and design distinctions exist between early Series I issues and later Series II coins. Collectors and buyers building complete sets should pay attention to both the year and the series designation listed in each product name to ensure they're acquiring the correct version for their purposes. Packaging formats have also varied over the program's history, with some denominations shipping in mint tubes with stated inner-pack quantities and others delivered in individual packaging or in mint assay cards, depending on the production year and denomination.

Pricing, Premiums, and Market Factors

Like all physical gold bullion, gold lunar coins are priced as a function of the current gold spot price plus a premium. The premium covers minting costs, distribution, dealer handling, and in some cases a collectibility component tied to the design program's recognition. For a globally respected series from The Perth Mint, premiums are generally competitive with other government-issued bullion programs, though they tend to be higher than cast bar products due to the additional cost of coin production.

Fractional denominations carry proportionally higher premiums than 1 oz coins. A 1/20 oz coin, for example, will carry a larger premium per troy ounce than its 1 oz equivalent because the fixed cost of minting is spread across a smaller gold content. The 2 oz coins sometimes show tighter premiums per ounce relative to the mid-size denominations, though production volumes and market liquidity for those sizes can differ. Buyers focused on minimizing premium per ounce generally gravitate toward 1 oz coins as the most pricing-efficient format within a series like this.

At Bullion Standard, pricing is updated in real time to reflect live gold spot movements and current wholesale market conditions. Our pricing structure is designed for transparency rather than complexity, and the bid/ask spread displayed on each product page provides a clear picture of both the acquisition cost and the expected resale value at that moment. For buyers interested in tighter spreads and execution closer to wholesale pricing, Bullion Standard Pro offers access to live wholesale market pricing across the catalog.

Condition, Packaging, and What to Expect

Gold lunar coins in our catalog are listed in Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) condition, which reflects the standard for freshly minted bullion coins that have not entered circulation and show no signs of wear. BU coins may carry minor contact marks or light handling abrasions consistent with the minting and packaging process. These are not defects and are a normal characteristic of uncertified bullion-grade coinage. Buyers expecting the pristine surfaces of a proof coin should note that BU is a distinct grade with different aesthetic characteristics.

Packaging formats across the lunar series vary by denomination and year. Some 1 oz coins ship in individual tubes or in mint-specified inner packs of 10, 20, or 25 coins, depending on the production year. Certain denominations ship with outer-pack configurations of 100 or 250 coins intended for bulk distribution. Individual buyers typically receive coins in protective flips, capsules, or tubes appropriate to the denomination. Coins sourced from opened tubes may show minor handling consistent with that distribution format.

Because these coins span production years from 1996 onward, buyers should expect natural variation in toning, luster, and surface presentation depending on how coins have been stored since production. Older coins from the mid-to-late 1990s may show light toning or patina that does not affect gold content or purity. Bullion Standard verifies authenticity and gold content on all inventory before fulfillment, regardless of production year.

Authenticity and Verification

Every gold lunar coin sold through Bullion Standard is sourced from reputable mints, wholesalers, and distributors and verified for authenticity before it reaches our customers. The Perth Mint's manufacturing standards, combined with the coin's stated weight, diameter, thickness, and purity, provide multiple reference points for verification. Our team checks these parameters against published mint specifications for each year and denomination.

The P mint mark struck into each lunar coin is a consistent identifier of Perth Mint production. Beyond visual inspection, industry-standard verification methods include precise weight measurement using calibrated scales, dimensional checks using calipers, and where appropriate, electronic conductivity testing. Buyers who prefer third-party grading for additional certification can submit coins to PCGS or NGC. Bullion Standard is an authorized dealer for both services, which means our customers have access to the formal submission process if they choose to pursue certified grades.

Anti-counterfeiting risk for gold coins is managed through the combination of precise minting tolerances, standardized physical specifications, and the consistent application of design elements that are difficult to replicate at the required level of accuracy. Purchasing from verified dealers who source from legitimate supply chains remains the most reliable protection for buyers.

Liquidity and Resale Considerations

Gold lunar series coins from The Perth Mint enjoy broad recognition across the global bullion market. The Perth Mint's international standing, combined with the consistent 0.9999 purity standard and clear weight markings, makes lunar coins recognizable to dealers, auction platforms, and private buyers in most major markets. This recognition supports relatively straightforward resale compared to lesser-known private mint products.

Series I coins, particularly earlier years like the 1996 Rat and 2000 Dragon, may attract additional attention from collectors interested in the original designs, which can influence resale dynamics beyond standard spot-plus-premium pricing. Series II coins, with their wider production volumes and updated designs, tend to trade more consistently within typical bullion dealer spread structures. The 1 oz denomination across both series carries the broadest market liquidity given its alignment with the global standard bullion coin weight.

Fractional sizes generally trade within a narrower buyer pool, which can affect how quickly they move in the secondary market and at what spread. Buyers considering the 1/20 oz or 1/10 oz sizes should understand that while these denominations are legitimate Perth Mint products, their resale market is somewhat less deep than the 1 oz format. Maintaining original packaging where possible supports cleaner verification at the point of resale.

Storage and Security

Proper storage for gold lunar coins depends on the quantity held and the format of the coins being stored. Individual coins are best kept in protective coin capsules sized to the appropriate diameter for each denomination. Because Series I and Series II coins differ in diameter on several denominations, it's worth confirming the correct capsule size before purchasing storage accessories. The 1 oz Series I coins fit a 32.1 mm capsule, while Series II 1 oz coins require a 39.34 mm capsule.

Coins held in larger quantities are often stored in the original mint tubes when available, which provide efficient protection and easy counting. Tube-stored coins should be kept away from moisture, temperature extremes, and direct sunlight to prevent toning or surface changes over time. A home safe rated for both fire and theft resistance provides a practical first line of protection for moderate holdings. For larger accumulations, third-party vault storage through a segregated precious metals depository offers stronger security and may simplify insurance coverage.

Gold is chemically stable and does not oxidize under normal conditions, but contact with harsh chemicals, improper handling, or prolonged exposure to humidity can affect surface appearance. Handling coins by the edges, keeping them in sealed capsules, and storing them in a controlled environment are standard practices that preserve condition over time without requiring specialized equipment.

Selling and Buyback Options

Bullion Standard operates as a two-way market, meaning customers can sell gold lunar coins back into our system using the same platform where they purchased them. Our buyback pricing is based on live wholesale bid pricing and reflects current market conditions at the time of the transaction. Sellers receive competitive pricing without the friction of navigating multiple platforms or negotiating with unfamiliar buyers.

Buyback pricing is influenced by several factors, including the denomination, the year and series, the condition of the coin, and whether original packaging is intact. A 1 oz Series I coin from a recognized year in original tube packaging will generally support stronger buyback terms than a heavily toned fractional coin with missing documentation. Coins that are clearly authentic, properly stored, and presented in reasonable condition are the easiest to process through our purchasing team.

For customers interested in understanding the resale side of the transaction before making a purchase, our product pages display live bid/ask spread data that reflects the current wholesale market. This allows buyers to evaluate the complete transaction, including both the cost to acquire and the expected value upon liquidation, before committing to a purchase. That level of transparency is central to how Bullion Standard approaches the buying and selling process.

Why Buy Gold Lunar Series Coins?

The appeal of gold lunar series coins rests on a combination of factors that aren't present in every bullion product. The Perth Mint's reputation for consistent quality, the rotating design program tied to the Chinese zodiac, and the availability of multiple weights within a unified series make lunar coins attractive to both straightforward bullion buyers and collectors who appreciate the design element. The government-backed legal tender status adds another layer of institutional credibility that some buyers find meaningful.

For buyers interested in building a collection over time, the twelve-year structure of each series provides a natural framework. Completing a full set of 1 oz coins across one cycle, for example, represents a defined collecting goal that many buyers find satisfying independent of the bullion component. The dual nature of these coins, functioning as both tradeable gold and design collectibles, gives them a profile that single-design programs don't replicate.

From a purely practical standpoint, the range of available weights gives buyers genuine flexibility. A buyer who wants meaningful gold exposure without committing to a full troy ounce can find well-recognized, Perth Mint-backed options in 1/4 oz or 1/2 oz sizes. The consistent purity standard across all weights ensures that the gold content is never in question, regardless of which denomination a buyer selects.

Why Buy from Bullion Standard?

Bullion Standard was founded in 2010 in San Diego, California with a clear philosophy: the precious metals buying experience should be transparent, straightforward, and built around the customer's long-term interests rather than short-term sales pressure. That approach hasn't changed as we've grown into a nationally recognized online marketplace. Every product we sell is verified for authenticity, weight, and purity before it ships, and our pricing reflects real-time market conditions rather than arbitrary markups.

Our two-way market structure means we're not simply a retailer focused on outbound sales. We actively purchase bullion from customers, which means our pricing has to hold up on both sides of the transaction. That accountability creates a stronger alignment between our interests and our customers' interests than a one-directional retail model provides. It also means you can evaluate the bid/ask spread on any product page before making a purchase decision, giving you a clear picture of where the market stands in real time.

Bullion Standard holds an A rating with the Better Business Bureau and maintains active membership in the American Numismatic Association and the National Coin and Bullion Association. We are an authorized dealer for PCGS and NGC, which gives our customers access to professional coin grading services through a trusted channel. Our checkout process supports a wide range of payment options including major credit cards, PayPal, bank-connected payments through Plaid, wire transfer, paper check, and cryptocurrency through BitPay. Secure fulfillment, responsive customer service, and a platform designed around informed decision-making are what define the Bullion Standard experience.

Get Near-Spot Pricing with Bullion Standard Pro

Bullion Standard Pro is designed for buyers who want pricing that reflects the wholesale market directly. Members gain access to live executable wholesale bid and ask pricing across our full catalog, including gold lunar series coins. Rather than retail-structured pricing with fixed dealer spreads, Pro members transact at prices that move with actual wholesale market conditions. This means premiums and spreads fluctuate based on supply, demand, and liquidity rather than a static markup applied by a dealer.

For buyers who purchase repeatedly or in meaningful quantities, the pricing efficiency available through Bullion Standard Pro can represent a significant difference over time. The platform also provides portfolio valuation based on live wholesale bid pricing rather than estimated retail values, which offers a more accurate view of what your holdings are actually worth at current market liquidation levels. Historical premium data, spread analysis, and proprietary market intelligence tools give members additional context for evaluating individual products before committing to a purchase.

The broader goal behind Bullion Standard Pro is to bring the kind of market transparency and analytical depth that sophisticated financial markets take for granted into the physical precious metals space. Seeing live executable pricing, understanding how premiums have moved over time, and being able to compare products by spread tightness and liquidity gives informed buyers a meaningful edge when building or managing a physical gold position. For serious buyers of gold lunar coins or any other bullion product, Bullion Standard Pro represents the most direct path to market-level pricing available in the physical metals market today.